Software defined wide area network setups, more often referred to as SD-WANs, are relatively new arrivals in the world of cybersecurity and connectivity. These advanced networking systems automate many elements of your connectivity, which can allow your Huntsville, Alabama business to manage your applications much more efficiently. At Meriplex, we offer cybersecurity and intelligent connectivity solutions that can help your business to manage all aspects of your operations more easily and effectively.
What Is a Wide Area Network?
Most networks are designed to provide connectivity for only a small geographic area and may be wired or wireless. By contrast, a wide area network is not directly tied to a specific geographic location. These telecommunication networks connect devices located in different parts of the country and various areas around the world. Linking organizations and devices through a WAN can be achieved through the use of wireless networks, virtual private networks, cellular networks and online.
Software-defined wide area networks allow the management of wide area networks through specialized software that automates most aspects of this process into a convenient application. Industry experts point to the rate of digital acceleration and adoption of new technologies as a driving force in the modern business world.
Pros and Cons of SD-WAN Implementations
When deciding if a software-defined wide area network is right for you, considering the various benefits and drawbacks of these implementations can provide you with the information you need. Here are some of the most important reasons to consider a software-defined wide area network for your company:
- Improved user experiences when accessing cloud services and Software-as-a-Service applications: Software-defined and supported wide area networks offer improved interfaces that can make it much easier for your end users to maintain high levels of productivity.
- Enhanced traffic management: Systems administrators can monitor and manage bandwidth and prioritize applications from an intuitive and unified dashboard interface. This can provide greater agility for high-traffic apps while ensuring that workers can access the tools and applications they need in a timely way.
- Upgraded cybersecurity: Next-generation malware protection and firewalls can provide an extra level of security for sensitive information, proprietary data and confidential intellectual property.
- Reduced costs: Many business operations enjoy lower costs for their software-defined WAN implementations compared with multi-protocol label switching (MPLS), which is an older networking technology still in use by many businesses. As far back as 2018, Gartner Research and other industry thought leaders were predicting the demise of MPLS and the benefits of switching to software-defined wide area networks for improved availability and lower overall costs.
- Easier administration: Because many of the processes involved in administering MPLS systems are automated by software-defined wide area networks, implementing these intelligent connectivity solutions can allow your IT team to save time and effort in managing your networking needs.
Of course, there are some disadvantages to implementing software-defined wide area networking solutions for your business. Here are some drawbacks to keep in mind when considering an upgrade to these technologies:
- Not universally adopted: Some companies are still using older and, in some cases, outdated networking systems. This can present connectivity issues that can generally be resolved with hybrid approaches that incorporate elements of older systems with your new deployment. As more companies adopt this technology, however, this drawback will become less important to your business model.
- Staffing challenges: Because software defined wide area network technologies are still relatively new, your current IT staff may not have the skills needed to manage these systems effectively. Going with a managed solution from Meriplex can resolve these issues quickly and conveniently.
- Hardware requirements: Upgrading to software-defined wide area network systems can sometimes require the purchase of additional hardware. This may represent a significant drain on cash on hand for your business. Working with Meriplex is a solid step toward determining the real cost of your upgrade and implementation of these advanced technologies.
At Meriplex, our experienced and knowledgeable team can provide your company with the benefits of our proven expertise. We work with you and your IT team to deliver the best solutions for your business operations.
Meriplex Can Provide the Support You Need
To learn more about SD-WAN or any of our other managed security or connectivity options in Huntsville, Alabama, visit Meriplex online to fill out our contact form or call us at 256-461-0040. You can also reach our team by email at connect@meriplex.com. We are here to help your Huntsville company to survive and thrive in the modern business environment. If you need help with cybersecurity or connectivity, Meriplex can provide the support and services you need to stay on the cutting edge safely.
